Health campaigner Vernon dedicates his OBE to parents

Former chief executive of the Afiya Trust makes heartfelt speech in honour of his family

10/11/2012 10:30 AM

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PRIDE: Vernon receiving his award with parents Norris and Avis

PROUD PARENTS Norris and Avis Vernon beam as community activist Patrick Vernon receives his OBE from Prince Charles on October 25.

Vernon, the former chief executive of the Afiya Trust, and now committee member on patient care watchdog HealthWatch England, has dedicated the Queen’s Honour to them.

Vernon told The Voice: “I am dedicating this honour to my parents who were part of the Windrush Generation. They made a lot of personal sacrifices in coming to Britain and raising my four sisters and I."

"It is also great to receive this award which also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Independence of Jamaica.”

Vernon was awarded an OBE for his commitment to working to combat health inequalities for black and minority ethnic communities in a 20-year career.